5 Cheap Ways To Celebrate The Fourth of July

The Fourth of July is a wonderful time to celebrate with your friends and family. If you’re buying food, drinks, decorations, and fireworks, an amazing time with your loved ones can get expensive quickly. Here are some ways to save money on your Fourth of July celebration and still enjoy your holiday weekend.

Save on Fireworks

In 2014, consumers spent $695 million on fireworks for their homes. Consumers spend an average of $100-$300 on fireworks each year! Instead of spending $100 plus on your own fireworks, find a display happening near you. Growing up, my Dad used to create firework displays (complete with theme music) from our own backyard. Creating your own firework display is no cheap task. Instead of buying them yourself, attend a display near you. If you absolutely MUST have your own fireworks, wait till they go on sale July 5th and stock up for next year.

Save on Entertainment

During Fourth of July weekend, there are usually all sorts of free entertainment such as parades, live music, and pool parties. Pack a cooler of snacks and drinks from home and enjoy the festivities at no cost.

Save on Decorations

Check your local Dollar Store for American-themed decorations. You can save hundreds on balloons, plates, cups, flags and more. Things such as garlands and table decorations are easy and inexpensive to make yourself. Search “Fourth of July decorations” on Pinterest for some inspiration.

Save on Food

If you’re hosting a cookout style party, or just thinking about grilling for just your family instead, it can quickly become an expensive meal. Many grocery stores will slash prices on Fourth of July items such as chips, hot dogs, buns, condiments, and paper products a few days before the fourth. Stay away from veggie or fruit trays as they will be marked up for the holiday. Stock up on soda when it goes on sale and save it for your Fourth of July BBQ. If you’re having guests over, consider asking them to bring chips or sides to help out. These items are inexpensive, and they’ll feel like they’re helping out.

Use what you already have

After you’ve made your list of what you’ll need to pull off your Fourth of July event, take a quick inventory of what you have already. Do you already have a pork loin in your freezer? Consider using it to serve pulled pork instead of traditional hamburgers. If there are items you are missing such a punch bowl or serving dishes, consider asking a neighbor or one of your guests if you can borrow theirs.

Many of you might be getting together for picnics or fireworks during the holiday weekend, but take a moment to remember why this day is important. Fourth of July is about celebrating our independence and the prices that were paid by our soldiers and our people to gain it. There are so many ways to enjoy your Independence day on a budget, you only need to get creative.